Unisa, Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber explore collaboration opportunities

Unisa’s Eastern Cape Region, in partnership with the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber, recently hosted a stakeholder engagement evening at the Courtyard Hotel in Gqeberha. The event was attended by companies who are members of the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber, to foster positive and productive partnerships.

Unisa staff and members of the Nelson Mandela Bay Business Chamber who participated in the stakeholder engagement

Motale Nkgoang, Unisa’s Eastern Cape Regional Director, extended a warm welcome and set the tone for the evening when he highlighted the importance of collaboration for the development of the Eastern Cape Region. Raseela Daya, the Regional Office Coordinator for Unisa’s Gqeberha Regional Service Centre, highlighted several ongoing initiatives and projects in which the regional centre is engaged, and explained how each project aims to mitigate and address key community challenges within the Nelson Mandela Bay Metropolitan Municipality and contribute to broader economic growth.

Prof Pumela Msweli, Executive Dean and Chief Executive Officer of Unisa’s Graduate School of Business Leadership (SBL), delivered the keynote address titled "Intra-Africa Trade Opportunities for SMEs: AfCFTA Context". The presentation shed light on the vast potential for small and medium enterprises within the framework of the African Continental Free Trade Area (AfCFTA), highlighting the key avenues for growth and how these can foster economic growth and collaboration among African countries.

In addition to exploring trade opportunities, Msweli highlighted the relevant courses offered by the SBL, designed specifically to equip individuals with the necessary knowledge to navigate the complexities of intra-Africa trade. Msweli concluded her presentation by also showcasing the SBL’s diverse product portfolio as well as important information such as the application and registration process. She encouraged everyone to embark on the academic journey of upskilling themselves.

Unisa’s Dean of Students, Dr Olwethu Sipuka, delivered a heartfelt vote of thanks, encouraging everyone to engage further in the discussed opportunities for growth and collaboration. The night concluded with an engaging networking session and was a huge success.

 * By Ayanda Mdunge, Communication and Marketing Intern, Unisa Eastern Cape